Access to safe, effective, quality-assured, and affordable medicines is critical for achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and improving public health outcomes. A strong National Medicines Policy (NMP) provides the framework to guide the regulation, selection, supply, and use of medicines — ensuring that no one is left behind. It shapes how countries like Ghana manage pharmaceutical services, from procurement and pricing to rational use and local production, making it a key tool for health systems strengthening.

Ghana’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to safe, effective, and affordable medicines marked a new milestone on April 25, 2025, as stakeholders validated assessment tools and methodologies during an engagement with the technical consultant leading the review of the country’s National Medicines Policy (NMP).

The World Health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health (MoH), is supporting the review of the expired 2017 policy to ensure that Ghana’s pharmaceutical and health systems continue to meet the evolving needs of its people and advance progress toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

At a validation meeting, WHO provided technical support to ensure that the tools and methodology guiding the independent assessment are robust, comprehensive, and fit for purpose. The findings of the assessment and corresponding recommendations will inform the full review and preparation of a new National Medicines Policy, following the expiration of the 2017 edition.

The 2017 National Medicines Policy was deeply rooted in the health-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 on good health and well-being. It was also aligned with Ghana’s Shared Growth and Development Agenda and national health strategies aimed at bridging equity gaps, improving healthcare financing, and enhancing service delivery. The policy focused on strengthening pharmaceutical governance, improving procurement systems, institutionalizing traditional medicine practice, supporting the local pharmaceutical manufacturing industry, and promoting rational medicine use among others.

An independent mid-term review conducted in 2021 revealed that nearly half (47%) of the key policy components were on track, while about a quarter were at risk or only partially achieved. The review also identified critical gaps needing urgent attention, including the need for stronger inter-agency collaboration, better public awareness efforts, establishment of functional accountability mechanisms, and continuous monitoring and evaluation systems. Importantly, considering the significant health systems disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the mid-term review recommended extending the policy’s implementation period to 2024. This extension provided an opportunity to fully pursue the policy’s objectives before undertaking a comprehensive end-term evaluation.

The expiration of the 2017 policy presents both a challenge and an opportunity. This National Medicines Policy Steering Committee meeting signals the beginning of a carefully structured and inclusive review process that draws on lessons learned, addresses implementation gaps, and aligns with current global and national health priorities. WHO’s ongoing support will help Ghana build a resilient medicines policy framework — one that promotes equitable access to essential medicines and health technologies, strengthens regulatory systems, and supports the achievement of Universal Health Coverage.

By working closely with the Ministry of Health and other key stakeholders, WHO reaffirms its commitment to supporting Ghana’s journey toward a stronger, healthier future.

For Additional Information or to Request Interviews, Please contact:
Abdul-Lahie Abdul-Rahim Naa
Communications Officer
WHO Ghana Country Office
Email: abdullahiea [at] who.int (abdullahiea[at]who[dot]int)
Tel: +233 20 196 2393